How can I help my 2 1/2-year-old speak more clearly?

If you know what your child is trying to say, repeat it correctly and occasionally ask her to try again. If she says "ca" instead of "cat," for example, ask her if she can say the full word.Use this technique sparingly, though — most toddlers will get stubborn and refuse to cooperate if you ask them to repeat something too often. It may help to make an "I say, you say" copycat game out of it.